Canada and the United States (U.S.) share one of the most significant agricultural trading relationships in the world. Over half of Canada’s agri-food imports originate in the U.S., while 60% of Canada’s agri-food exports head south. Any disruption—like new tariffs—will directly impact farmers, food businesses, and consumers on both sides of the border.
With protectionist sentiments on the rise, our cross-border supply chains face serious risks. Now more than ever, dialogue, advocacy, and collaboration are essential to ensure our agricultural sectors remain strong and mutually beneficial.
The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) is working closely with government officials, industry stakeholders, and U.S. counterparts to ensure our farmers’ voices are heard. We aim to maintain open trade channels, emphasize the interdependence of our sectors, and continue to address emerging challenges.
Support for Canadian agriculture and agri-food industries impacted by trade disruptions
Latest Updates
April 15, 2025, the Minister of Finance, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, announced new measures for Canadian businesses and entities affected by the tariff dispute between Canada and the United States.
Further details are available in the Order in Council.
If you have questions about Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) compliance, there is now a direct phone line to support you. The Trade Commissioner Service has a new dedicated line that offers information on the rules of origin, customs procedures, and certification under the CUSMA. Please call 1-833-760-1167 | Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
For more information, visit: Understanding CUSMA/USMCA compliance
Please send any tariff related questions to: aafc.roundtable-tableronde.aac@agr.gc.ca
April 3 -The U.S. imposed a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian automobiles
Canada’s countermeasures include:
Effective date to be confirmed, 25 per cent tariffs on non-CUSMA compliant vehicles imported into Canada from the United States, and a 25 per cent tariff on non-Canadian and non-Mexican content of CUSMA compliant vehicles imported into Canada from the United States.
In addition, Canada intends to develop an auto tariff remission framework that reflects and incentivizes production and investment in Canada.
March 6, 2025 – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Summary of AAFC Information Call on Trade and Tariffs
Feb 21, 2025 – U.S.- Canada Trade
February 3, 2025 – Justin Trudeau on X
Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days.
February 2, 2025 – Department of Finance Canada
Government of Canada announces next steps in its response plan to unjustified U.S. tariffs
Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs, unveiled the full list of items covered by tariffs on $30 billion in goods imported from the U.S., the first phase of Canada’s response to unjustified U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
Process for requesting remission of tariffs that apply on certain goods from the U.
Key Objectives
1. Strong Federal Leadership
It is imperative that the Government of Canada shows strong and focused leadership on this issue, supporting farmers advocacy efforts south of the border through consistent, clear, and coordinated communication efforts.
2. United, Strategic Approach
Canada’s message should be clear, tariffs on agricultural products will have a negative effect on businesses and consumers on both sides of the border.
3. Maintain All Options
A comprehensive approach should be undertaken that includes advocating for targeted exemptions and consideration of tariff and non-tariff responses, compensation for affected industries, and promoting further trade diversification, where possible.
4. Safeguard Domestic Supply Chains
If required, when planning countermeasures, keep Canadian producers in mind, especially those who rely on cross-border inputs. It’s important to support our farmers in maintaining their competitiveness while also nurturing those vital supply relationships that are so crucial for our collective success.
Key Messages
Canada and U.S. trade is important for the U.S. and Canadian economies.
Imports from Canada feed U.S. industry, making it stronger and more competitive.
The U.S. only has a trade deficit with Canada when you include energy exports.
June 2-3rd
CAFS works to support critical, interdisciplinary scholarship and practice across the many issues that food systems comprise.
June 11-12th
Canada’s agriculture and food and beverage manufacturing sectors are experiencing severe chronic labour and skills shortages while growing one of Canada’s largest employment and economic sectors. A national, actionable roadmap will create the desired workforce of the future that addresses immediate labour gaps and systemic issues.
June 16-17th
The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal grouping of 7 of the world’s advanced economies and the European Union. Its members meet annually at the G7 Summit to discuss global economic and geopolitical issues.
June 18th
A one-day event bringing together leaders, experts, and change makers in the Canadian food insecurity sector. It is meant to garner commitment towards a common agenda that will change the direction of food insecurity across the country and aims to inspire and motivate participants to take action and implement change within their own contexts.
Stay ahead of the curve with this overview of Canada–US agricultural trade.
Understand the real trade numbers, the impact of potential tariffs, and why our cross-border partnership matters.
